1999 BMW M Roadster
Only 18 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 18 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 19 |
| 1999 | 18 |
| 2000 | 19 |
| 2001 | 4 |
| 2002 | 5 |
| 2008 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 18 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 18 total reports mention: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
1) FAILURE OCCURRED SUDDENLY DURING ACCELERATION 2) THE DIFFERENTIAL MOUNTS AND SUBFRAME ON MY 1999 BMW M ROADSTER (MZ3) GAVE WAY, ALLOWING THE DIFFERENTIAL TO DROP TO THE ROAD MOMENTARILY AND CRACK THE HEAT SINK.
NHTSA ODI report, 20051219
AFTER OTHERS TOLD ME OF THE DEFECTS IN THEIR Z3 CARS, I DECIDED TO CHECK MY OWN CAR.
NHTSA ODI report, 20050819
4 of 18 total reports mention: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR ENGINE MAINTENANCE AND ASKED THEM TO ADDRESS SQUEAKS AND RATTLES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20150728
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, THE REAR END FAIL AND BEGAN TO DRAG. AFTER GETTING THE CAR TOWED TO THE SHOP, IT WAS NOTED THE REAR END SUBFRAME WELDS CAME LOSE. AFTER CONTACTING THE INSURANCE COMPANY THEY TOTALED THE CAR OUT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120315
3 of 18 total reports mention: power train.
1 of 18 total reports mentions: visibility.
Show complaint excerpts
1998 & 1999 M ROADSTER AND M COUPE BMWS HAVE A HUGE REARVIEW MIRROR THAT IS POSITIONED LOW, AND IMPAIRS FRONT VISIBILITY. MIRROR CREATES A HUGE BLIND SPOT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20000113
1 of 18 total reports mentions: suspension.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1999 BMW M Roadster — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for structure issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (3 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1999 BMW M Roadster reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1999 BMW M Roadster?
The most-reported component is structure:frame and members, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1999 BMW M Roadster have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.